Justin Houtz

1 Kings 3, Mark 6

DateVersionReading Plan
October 21, 2025ESV (2016)OT/NT Plan 2025 – 2027

1 Kings 3

Observation & Interpretation

1 Kings 3:1 – Solomon loved the LoRD and walked in the statutes of his father but he made sacrifices in the high places.

  • It was not pagan worship, but it was worship of the LORD in places that were not in accordance with the law.
  • God was supposed to be worshiped only in the place which he designated. But it is here excused on the ground that there was no official house. (BBC)

1 Kings 3:10-14 – It pleased the Lord that Solomon asked for wisdom rather than long life, riches or victory over enemies. God granted his request but also gave him riches and honor. He told Solomon that he would lengthen his days if he walked in the ways o the LORD, keeping His commandments and statutes.

1 Kings 3:26 – In response to Solomon ordering the son to be cut in half, the real mother told Solomon to spare her son’s life and give him to the other woman.

  • Not only did she plead for her son to be spared, she was willing to make the sacrifice of giving him to the other woman; self-sacrificial.

Mark 6

Observation & Interpretation

Mark 6:6 – Jesus marveled at the unbelief of those in His hometown.

  • Such unbelief as this has immense consequences for evil. It closes the channels of grace and mercy, so that only a trickle gets through to human lives in need. (BBC, quoting J.G. Miller)

Mark 6:7-29 – Were it not for the unmerited and justifying grace of God, all human beings would deserve divine judgment (Rom. 3:9-10, 20, 23). In this sense, all human beings, regardless of race, ethnicity, or religion, are “Canaanites”, deserving of death in the face of a righteous, holy God who is a consuming yet loving fire. Before a righteous God, no human being deserves a chance at life, due to the various forms of enmity, idolatry, immorality, and indifference before God. (ESVEC – Response)

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